Jeff Martin wrote The Badger in the backyard of English folk legend Roy Harper's home in Ireland. When he was finished writing, a Badger crossed his path and showed its clear displeasure of Jeff's presence, hence the name.

However. ”The Badger” is mainly a hommage to Roy Harper with whom Martin shared a long-standing friendship. Harper is not only know for it's own work, but also for the vocals on the Pink Floyd track “Have a Cigar” and his proximity to Jimmy Page and Robert Plant.


Harper accompanied the band on their Splendor Solis Canada tour and was the opening act. He also appeared briefly in the video for “The River”.

Roy Harper at a Jeff Maertin solo gig in Ireland 2006.

Jeff Martin visits Roy Harper in Ireland

Jeff Martin visited Harper several times in Ireland, where he now lived. It was also Harper who later advised Jeff to come to Ireland after the break-up of The Tea Party in order to get away from drugs and rediscover the joy of making music. Jeff followed this call and Harper often attended Jeff's solo shows and also performed as his support act.